UC003 – Compression testing:

Load/unload cycles

Description

A uniaxial compression test is performed at a given crosshead speed. The specimen is loaded to a specified strain or stress level, and then unloaded at the same crosshead speed to zero load. This process is repeated for the desired number of load and unload cycles at the desired strain or stress levels. Strain is determined by measuring the local platen displacement using an extensometer (clip-on or non-contact, laser).

Temperature Options

This test can generally be performed at any temperature between -80ºC and 280ºC.

CT: Cryogenic temperatures (-80ºC to 20ºC)

RT: Room temperature (~ 20ºC)

HT: High temperatures (20ºC to 280ºC)

Note: The use of the temperature chamber for high and low temperature
tests limits the crosshead displacement for these tests. Some
combinations of material, temperature and specimen geometries may not be
possible to complete to failure.

Strain Rates

Strain rates up to ~ 1/s are possible, depending on specimen geometry.